Pivot

The hosts dive into Amazon and IBM halting facial recognition tech due to serious racial bias concerns. They also discuss Starbucks shutting down 400 stores, reflecting on the future of brick-and-mortar retailers. In a thought-provoking segment, Biden’s request to Zuckerberg on political speech regulation sparks debate. Additionally, they tackle the cultural implications of classic films and the need for contextualization regarding historic racism. Finally, speculation about Apple’s potential entry into search leaves tech enthusiasts intrigued.

Mike Masnick, founder and editor of TechDirt and a Section 230 expert, dives into the crucial implications of the controversial law that governs online discourse. He unpacks the ongoing debate surrounding accountability and free speech in the digital age. The conversation also highlights the recent lawsuit by Amazon warehouse workers over COVID-19 safety, and Alexis Ohanian's potential impact on diversity following his departure from Reddit's board. There's a fascinating exploration of how corporations are navigating these pressing issues.

Kara and Scott dive into Zuckerberg's decision to allow Trump to post inflammatory content on Facebook without restrictions. They also discuss a lawsuit alleging Google may be violating privacy laws with its Incognito mode. Listener mail brings up Amazon bonds, alongside a prediction for a strong IPO market in 2020, contrasting innovative companies with traditional sectors. The conversation intertwines tech accountability, corporate finance strategies, and the evolving landscape of the industry, all delivered with insightful commentary and humor.

Baratunde Thurston, an activist and comedian known for his insightful commentary on race and identity, joins the discussion to shed light on how social media platforms are grappling with racist content during national protests. Amidst the backdrop of civil unrest, he critiques corporate responses to social justice and highlights the importance of genuine commitments over performative actions. Thurston emphasizes the need for resilience among young people of color and advocates for actionable steps to combat racism and promote inclusivity.

Kara and Scott dive into Twitter's accountability for fact-checking Trump's tweets, unveiling their first misinformation label. They tackle the future of privatized space travel with Elon Musk's SpaceX launches on the horizon. The conversation shifts to Amazon's transparency about COVID-related data, amid discussions of corporate responsibility. A listener's question sparks debate over big tech's role in mental health apps, exploring the intersection of technology and well-being.

Caryn Marooney, former VP of Global Communications at Facebook, shares her insider perspective on Mark Zuckerberg's shift to remote work, discussing its ripple effects on corporate culture and employee engagement. The conversation also touches on how the pandemic is reshaping industries, including the return of professional sports with Disney's involvement. Additionally, the New York Stock Exchange's evolving role is examined, emphasizing the impact of this transformation on IPO dynamics and tech investments.

Kara and Scott discuss Spotify's powerful new deal with Joe Rogan and its potential shake-up for the podcast scene. Amazon is reportedly eyeing a bid for JCPenney, and there's a dive into Saudi Arabia's investment spree during the pandemic. TikTok is on the rise, especially with its new CEO from Disney, while Scott predicts a major acquisition move from Shopify. They blend humor with serious insights on spending habits and the shifting landscape of tech investments, providing a lively take on today’s business dynamics.

Phil Howard, Director of the Oxford Internet Institute, joins the discussion on the ever-evolving landscape of misinformation. He delves into the latest internet conspiracies and their social impact, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation also touches on how misinformation spreads through social media and its implications for society. Additionally, the hosts analyze the Department of Justice's upcoming lawsuit against Google for antitrust issues in digital advertising, as well as Amazon's strategic entry into the luxury fashion market.

Kara and Scott dive into Uber's potential acquisition of GrubHub, debating its impact on the food delivery market and local businesses. They explore Elon Musk's push to reopen his Tesla factory amid pandemic restrictions and share thoughts on the influence of billionaires on public health policy. Listener questions spark conversations about changing dynamics in ad-supported television, with predictions about upcoming mergers in the digital media landscape and the survival strategies of smaller companies.

Stephanie Ruhle, NBC News senior business correspondent and MSNBC anchor, dives into the ramifications of Amazon's potential acquisition of AMC theaters. She highlights how this move could reshape the entertainment industry and discusses major policy gaps in the CARES Act. Ruhle also addresses the economic fallout from COVID-19, pointing out the challenges that small businesses face amid recovery strategies favoring larger corporations. The conversation touches on the evolving dynamics of work and education in a post-pandemic world.